Nord-Lock has launched a new bolt securing system that it says increases safety and operational reliability, and reduces adverse events on oil and gas installations.
Offshore staff
GOTHENBURG, Sweden–Nord-Lock has launched a new bolt securing system that it says increases safety and operational reliability, and reduces adverse events on oil and gas installations.
Industry statistics show that adverse events related to bolts loosening occur every third week at installations on theNorwegian continental shelf. Nord-Lock’s new equipment, including washer, bolt and nut, enables a reduction in the need for retightening.
On average, a conventional semi-rig is held together by 300,000 bolted joints. Regulations byDNV-GL and other certification institutes demand an annual control and retightening on at least 20% of the bolts related to drilling structures, representing estimated annual costs at around $1 million. Additional costs might appear when inspections discover needed corrective measures, or require bolt replacements.
Nord-Lock’s solution holds properties allowing rig owners and operators to apply DNV-GL, or other certification institutes, to offer a relief from regular torque checks of drilling structures (such as standard OSS 201 from DNV-GL), if the parameters are met, the company says.
